Avoiding Worry Over a Family Job

Updated April 11, 2006 12:01 a.m. ET

Q: I am thinking of seeking a new job after eight years in a family business. I am concerned about looking as if "daddy" gave me the job. What is the best approach?

A: You may be leaving because you can't advance further, a new family member is going to run the company, or it is being sold. Whatever the reason, if you don't make your relationship to your bosses an issue, prospective employers aren't likely to. They're more interested in your skills and accomplishments and why you want to leave than whether you...